What is the new Google update all about? In just a few weeks (as of the time of this post) Google will be implementing their latest search algorithm. In an effort to deliver better search results to mobile users, the new algorithm will favor “mobile-friendly” websites. The downfall is that websites that aren’t mobile-friendly will be penalized and will fall in ranking. Once rolled out, the algorithm change is expected to have a significant impact on search results; perhaps even more of an impact on search rankings than either Panda or Penguin, two of the most impactful search algorithm updates Google has ever rolled out. What exactly is a mobile-friendly website? Mobile-friendly websites are designed to look good on mobile devices like phones or tablets. The best way to make a mobile-friendly website is to use a responsive design. Responsive websites will automatically change based on the size of the screen that the website is being viewed on. Take a look at the image below. It shows how the Bend International School website we recently built will look on a computer, laptop, tablet and a phone. If you look closely you’ll see that different parts will either resize or change position depending on the screen size. Another aspect of mobile-friendly website design is navigation. When using a website on a phone menus and navigation can be difficult to use. In responsive website designs the navigation will change to a more mobile-friendly style of drop-down menus when the screen size gets too narrow. Is your website Mobile-Friendly? If you don’t know, it’s a good idea to check your website out. Google...

Here is a great example of a web video. We produced this video for the Downtown Bend Business Association to show the benefits of owning/operating a business in Downtown Bend Oregon. The Downtown Bend Business Association (DBBA) is a non-profit organization that was formed in 1982 to help improve economic vitality by enhancing the experience, image and lifestyle of Downtown Bend. We walked all over downtown with Chuck Arnold, Executive Director of DBBA, to visit with local business owners and got their perspectives on why they love running their business downtown. Downtown Bend is one of the best places to visit in Central Oregon. Right in the heart of Bend, it offers a huge variety of restaurants and shops with something for everyone. Just a couple steps from Mirror Pond and Drake Park, you can also spend the day relaxing right along the Deschutes River. It’s no wonder why business owners love Downtown Bend. Visit www.downtownbend.org for the latest on everything Downtown Bend has to...

With all of the ways for a business owner to make their own website today it’s hard to believe everyone doesn’t have one. Now, don’t get me wrong, I still think it’s a better idea to let someone who has experience build your website, but it’s just not in every business budget to go that route. That being said, take a look around and check out other business websites. Design What do you like, or dislike, about the website designs? You want your website to reflect your business but also be appealing to your visitors. Typically, you’ll start from a template for your website online. If you do start from a template, make sure you adapt it with your style. SEO Another thing that is often overlooked is SEO. Search Engine Optimization. You’re all done. The website is beautiful. Can people find it? This is one place where a professional is going to be a big advantage for your business. The whole point of the website is to gain you business. Properly developing the website so that is easy for your potential clients to find you is key. These are just a few things to consider when deciding whether or not you want to tackle designing your own website. If you do decide to do it yourself, send us a link, we’d love to check it...

You’d be crazy not to take advantage of the free advertising the internet can get your business. There is no other type of advertising that can get you more bang for your buck than a professional website. If you’re stuck in the days of yellow book listings and print ads, you’ll be left in your competition’s dust. Every business, large or small, needs a website. Even if it’s as simple as your location, store hours, and contact information. Unfortunately it’s not that simple though. Your customers need to be able to find easily find your website when they do a web search. That’s where we step in to get your business the exposure it needs. Brian Bend Pro Web Design www.bendproweb.com (541)...